In this interview, Alyssa Salinas shares a glimpse of her life outside the courtroom as well as her journey to becoming a proud advocate for policyholders in first-party insurance cases.
When did you decide to be a lawyer?
When I was in college, I was fortunate enough to intern with the Court-Appointed Special Advocates of Hidalgo County. I was inspired to become a lawyer the first time I sat in a courtroom and observed them fearlessly advocating on behalf of the children. Thinking about how I could make a positive impact in a person’s life like that filled me with a sense of hope and purpose that I hadn’t felt before. Growing up I never really considered being a lawyer, but after that experience it made it difficult to consider doing anything else.
What is the best part of your job?
The best part of my job is that it’s so fulfilling. We often represent people who are experiencing one of the more difficult times in their lives, and it truly is an honor to advocate on their behalf. Whether it’s a residential claim or a commercial claim, it’s rewarding to know that the hard work we do helps restore some normalcy back into our clients’ lives.
What do you wish your clients knew about you?
I think our clients know this, but I care about their case not just because they’re our client, but because I feel strongly about doing what’s right in this area of the law. A residential or commercial insurance policy isn’t a light read and neither is the Texas Insurance Code, which is why it’s especially upsetting when insurance companies capitalize on the complexities of a first-party claim and take advantage of policyholders.
What do you like to do outside of the office?
More than anything I love spending quality time with my family and friends. I enjoy staying active daily by practicing yoga, doing Pilates, or walking outside. I also like to play the guitar or piano when there’s enough time in the day.
If you were a car, what make/model would you be and why?
I’ll choose my first car, which was a 2007 Jeep Wrangler Sahara because it was reliable.
What’s the best thing you can cook?
The best thing that I can cook is steak, but what I make most often is a taco salad because it’s delicious and healthy.